This year, a jury of professional illustrators and art directors chose 300 works from more than 8,700 entries submitted by 78 schools nationwide. The Society, as well as various other generous private and corporate donors, grants over $50,000 in scholarships to the best students featured in the competition. Awards and certificates will be handed out during an opening reception on Friday, May 9.

Held every year since 1981, pieces are accepted based on quality of technique, concept and skill of medium used. In a competition that can kick start a career, students bring their most sophisticated, well-crafted and original work to be tested.